His passing has been described as “unbearable sense of loss and sadness” by his football club TIBS FC in Thornaby, where he played for the U14s team.

The club are inviting friends and family to celebrate the teenager’s life with a candle vigil at the ground at 6pm on Friday.

A statement from the club said: “It is with an unbearable sense of loss and sadness that we announce the passing of Eddie Hamblett.

“Eddie loved playing football for TIBS U14s and always represented the club and his team mates well. He was a young man who made his parents extremely proud.

“We are sure the entire Ingleby Barwick community will join the TIBS committee, managers, coaches, players and his team mates as we extend our deepest sympathies to Ruth, Ian, Harry, their family and their friends at this difficult time.”

Louise Spellman, headteacher, said: “Eddie was a popular boy, well-liked by staff and students at our school. He was successful in his studies and was due to choose his GCSE options in the coming weeks.

“Eddie was also a promising young footballer, representing the school’s team and the Stockton District side.”

Louise Spellman (Image: Ian McIntyre)

She added that a book of condolence has been opened in school so students and staff can pay tribute to him.

A fundraising page has also been set up by the community through the Ingleby Barwick Notice Board page, to offer support the Hamblett family.